Tithi
Tithi is a fundamental element in the Hindu lunisolar calendar system “Panchang”, representing the lunar day or the phase of the Moon. It is based on the relative positions of the Moon and the Sun. The word “Tithi” is derived from the Sanskrit word “Titha,” which means a date or a day.
In Hindu astrology and religious observances, each lunar month is divided into 15+15=30 Tithis,though the number of tithi is not always exat 15+15=30 because of added tithis or lost (dropped tithi) explained later in this article. Discribed in the thithi vridhhi and thithi kshaya which are determined by the longitudinal difference between the Sun and the Moon. The duration of a Tithi is approximately 12 degrees of arc or approximately 24 hours. The Tithis are classified into two halves called Paksha: the waxing phase (Shukla Paksha) and the waning phase (Krishna Paksha).
The Shukla Paksha starts with the New Moon (Amavasya) and progresses towards the Full Moon (Purnima), while the Krishna Paksha starts with the Full Moon and progresses towards the New Moon. Each Paksha consists of 15 Tithis.
The Tithis are named based on their ordinal number in the lunar month, from Pratipada (first Tithi) to Amavasya (New Moon) in the Shukla Paksha, and from Pratipada to Purnima (Full Moon) in the Krishna Paksha. Each Tithi has its own specific characteristics and is associated with certain deities, rituals, and observances.
Names of tithi
1. Pratipada
2. Dwitiya
3. Tritiya
4. Chaturthi
5. Panchami
6. Shashthi
7. Saptami
8. Ashtami
9. Navami
10. Dashami
11. Ekadashi
12. Dwadashi
13. Trayodashi
14. Chaturdashi
15. Purnima/ Amavsya
These tithis represent the increasing phases of the moon during the waxing period. Purnima is the 15th tithi and represents the full moon day.Similarly on waning phase fifteenth day is Amavsya.
The choice of Tithi is significant for performing religious ceremonies, festivals, and other auspicious activities. It is believed that certain Tithis are more favorable for specific actions, while some Tithis may be considered inauspicious or less favorable. Therefore, individuals often consult the Panchang or an astrologer to determine the auspicious Tithi for important events in their lives.
Tithi Vriddhi
Tithi Vriddhi is a concept in Hindu astrology that occurs when a lunar day extends beyond the usual 24-hour duration and continues for an additional period.
In the Hindu lunar calendar system, a Tithi typically lasts for approximately 24 hours. However, due to certain astronomical factors and timing in the motion of the Moon, there are instances when a Tithi may continue for more than 24 hours. This extended duration is referred to as Tithi Vriddhi.
Tithi Vriddhi is regarded as a unique and powerful time period astrologically. It is believed that during Tithi Vriddhi, the energy and influence associated with that particular Tithi are intensified. Therefore, some people consider Tithi Vriddhi as highly auspicious for performing special religious rituals, ceremonies, and spiritual practices.
Astrologers and individuals who follow Hindu astrology may consult Panchangs or astrological calendars to determine the occurrence of Tithi Vriddhi and consider its significance when planning important events or activities.
Kshaya Tithi
Kshaya Tithi refers to a diminished or deficient lunar day. It is a phenomenon that occurs when a specific Tithi is absent during a lunar month due to certain astronomical factors.
The lunar month in the Hindu calendar is divided into 30 Tithis, representing the phases of the Moon. Each Tithi typically lasts for approximately 24 hours. However, occasionally, a Tithi may be absent or missing, resulting in a Kshaya Tithi.
The occurrence of a Kshaya Tithi is considered astrologically significant and is believed to have a unique influence. It is believed that during a Kshaya Tithi, certain activities or rituals may be avoided or considered inauspicious.
In general, Kshaya Tithi is associated with a weakening or reduction of the energy and auspiciousness usually associated with that particular Tithi. It is believed that initiating new ventures, important ceremonies, or other significant events during a Kshaya Tithi may not yield favorable results.
Astrologers and individuals who follow Hindu astrology often consult Panchangs or astrological calendars to determine the presence of a Kshaya Tithi in a particular lunar month. By considering the presence or absence of a Tithi, one can choose appropriate timings for auspicious events or activities.
The choice of Tithi is significant for performing religious ceremonies, festivals, and other auspicious activities. It is believed that certain Tithis are more favorable for specific actions, while some Tithis may be considered inauspicious or less favorable. Therefore, individuals often consult the Panchang or an astrologer to determine the auspicious Tithi for important events in their lives.